1B, Administrative Fines for Traffic Offenses

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12/17/2009 Page 2 The program is not being implemented as a revenue generator, and is not anticipated to generate significant revenue. The purpose of the program is to provide the ability to enforce the speed limit when drivers are less than ten miles over the limit, and to do so with a fine amount that provides the same amount of revenue to the City, but costs the driver less due to the substantially lower State surcharge. The program would be monitored regarding its effectiveness, both in terms of speed enforcement and in terms of costs vs. revenues. The City Attorney for the City of Little Canada and White Bear Township has prepared a sample resolution, a sample ordinance, and a sample letter to the Commissioner of Public Safety that are necessary for the implementation of the administrative fine program (see attached). The Arden Hills City Attorney has reviewed these documents, and has indicated they meet the requirements of the Statute. The appeal process is proposed to be provided through a cooperative arrangement of the cities and the Sheriff's Department to minimize the costs. The cities are in the process of working out an arrangement with a retired judge to serve as the hearing officer for the administrative fine appeals in the seven cities. The number of appeals is expected to be small, due to the amount of the administrative fine being $60.00, vs. at least twice that much for a regular speeding citation. Recommendation It is recommended that the City participate with the other Sheriff's police service cities in the administrative fine program for traffic offenses. Council Direction Requested Direction regarding the City's participation in the administrative fine program for traffic offenses, and moving forward with the resolution and ordinance necessary to implement the program.